12 Christian Symbols of Protection

Without question, the Latin cross—a lower case, t-shaped cross—is the most recognized symbol of Christianity today. However, over the centuries many other markings, identifiers, and distinguishing signs have represented the Christian faith. This collection of Christian symbols includes drawings and descriptions of the most easily identified symbols of Christianity.

Christian Cross

The Latin cross is the most familiar and widely recognized symbol of Christianity today. In all likelihood, it was the shape of the structure upon which Jesus Christ was crucified. Though various forms of the cross existed, the Latin cross was made of two pieces of wood crossed to create four right angles. The cross today represents Christ's victory over sin and death through the sacrifice of his own body on the cross.

Roman Catholic depictions of the cross often reveal the body of Christ still on the cross. This form is known as the crucifix and brings emphasis to the sacrifice and suffering of Christ. Protestant churches tend to portray the empty cross, emphasizing the resurrected, risen Christ. Followers of Christianity identify with the cross through these words of Jesus (also in Matthew 10:38; Mark 8:34; Luke 9:23):